Analysis of cotton water productivity in Fergana Valley of Central Asia

Cotton water productivity was studied in Fergana Valley of Central Asia during the years of 2009, 2010 and 2011. Data was collected from 18 demonstration fields (13 in Uzbekistan, 5 in Tajikistan). The demonstration field farmers implemented several improved agronomic and irrigation water management practices. The average values of crop yield, estimated crop consumptive use (ET) and total water applied (TWA) for the demonstration sites were, respectively, 3700 kg/ha, 6360 m/ha, and 8120 m/ha. The range of values for TWA and ET were, respectively, 5000 m/ha to 12,000 m3/ha and 4500 m/ha to 8000 m/ha. The range of values for TWA indicates the inequity in water distribution/accessibility. Addressing this inequity would also increase water productivity at field and project level.